Short Period Research Articles

Human brain activity and functional connectivity associated with verbal long-term memory consolidation across 1 month.

Declarative memories are initially dependent on the hippocampus and become stabilized through the neural reorganization of connections between the medial temporal lobe and neocortex. The exact time-course of these neural changes is not well established, although time-dependent changes in retrieval-related brain function can be detected across relatively short time periods in humans (e.g., hours to months). In a study involving older adults with normal cognition (N = 24), we investigated changes in brain activity and functional connectivity associated with the long-term memory consolidation of verbal material over one month. Participants studied fact-like, three-word sentences at 1-month, 1-week, 1-day, and 1-hour intervals before a recognition memory test inside an MRI scanner. Old/new recognition with confidence ratings and response times were recorded. We examined whole-brain changes in retrieval-related brain activity, as well as functional connectivity of the hippocampus and ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC), as memories aged from 1 hour to 1 month. Secondary analyses minimized the effect of confounding factors affected by memory age (i.e., changes in confidence and response time or re-encoding of targets). Memory accuracy, confidence ratings, and response times changed with memory age. A memory age network was identified where retrieval-related brain activity in cortical regions increased or decreased as a function of memory age. Hippocampal brain activity in an anatomical region of interest decreased with memory age. Importantly, these changes in retrieval-related activity were not confounded with changes in activity related to concomitant changes in behavior or encoding. Exploratory analyses of vmPFC functional connectivity as a function of memory age revealed increased connectivity with the posterior parietal cortex, as well as with the vmPFC itself. In contrast, hippocampal functional connectivity with the vmPFC and orbitofrontal cortex decreased with memory age. The observed changes in retrieval-related brain activity and functional connectivity align with the predictions of standard systems consolidation theory. These results suggest that processes consistent with long-term memory consolidation can be identified over short time periods using fMRI, particularly for verbal material.

Deconstructing Junior High School English Learning Materials based on Microlearning

Microlearning provides smaller units of a subject adapted using technologies that can be accessed anywhere in a relatively short period, making learning activities more efficient and helping students learn with a specific focus in a brief session. This study aims to analyze the extent of microlearning in the existing junior high school English learning materials and describe the description of junior high school English learning materials based on microlearning. This study uses a qualitative research approach to analyze 25 English learning materials applied and used by junior high school English language teachers in East Jakarta, DKI Jakarta. The study found that most of the junior high school English learning materials are not microlearning-based as they do not fulfill the indicators of microlearning-based English materials for the junior high school level. The procedure of deconstructing 36 basic competencies into microlearning object material includes recognizing the topic and the instructional activities as well as finding suitable micro-learning object materials for the activities. The total 195 microlearning object materials are varied, such as Short videos, Games, PPTs, Quizizz, Interactive e-learning Websites, podcasts, YouTube videos, digital flashcards, and many more. In summary, as the existing English learning materials do not fulfill the indicators, the procedure of deconstructing basic competencies is made to form micro-learning object materials.

A network application approach towards 5G and beyond critical communications use cases

Low latency and high bandwidth heralded with 5G networks will allow transmission of large amounts of Mission-Critical data over a short time period. 5G hence unlocks several capabilities for novel Public Protection and Disaster Relief (PPDR) applications, developed to support first responders in making faster and more accurate decisions during times of crisis. As various research initiatives are giving shape to the Network Application ecosystem as an interaction layer between vertical applications and the network control plane, in this article we explore how this concept can unlock finer network service management capabilities that can be leveraged by PPDR solution developers. In particular, we elaborate on the role of Network Applications as means for developers to assure prioritization of specific emergency flows of data, such as high-definition video transmission from PPDR field users to remote operators. To demonstrate this potential in future PPDR-over-5G services, we delve into the transfer of network-intensive PPDR solutions to the Network Application model. We then explore novelties in Network Application experimentation platforms, aiming to streamline development and deployment of such integrated systems across existing 5G infrastructures, by providing the reliability and multi-cluster environments they require.

Risk Analysis of Upper Limb Musculoskeletal Disorders in Industrial Skin Measurement Workers Using the Assessment of Repetitive Task Method

In the leather industry production process in the Piyungan area of Yogyakarta, Indonesia, the operators do a lot of repetitive activities with intensity and frequency of movement for a long time, for 8 hours in a sitting position. Operators measure on average 4700 pieces of leather per day. This leads to fatigue and complaints of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). For this reason, research was conducted to measure the level of risk of MSDs and improve them to reduce muscle complaints. This research was conducted experimentally on all skin-cutting operators at companies in the Piyungan area of Yogyakarta. Measurement of the risk level of upper limb musculoskeletal disorders using the Assessment of Repetitive Tasks (ART) method. The data was analyzed based on ART scores obtained, ranging from low, medium, and high risk level scores. The conclusion of the results showed that the risk level of upper limb musculoskeletal disorders in this skin measurement operator included medium and high risk levels on the left and right upper limb operators. Improvements that can be made to reduce the level of risk are improvements to work facilities in the form of chairs, additional short rest periods, and stretching muscles before and after doing work on all skin measurement production operators.

Unveiling the unique properties of carbon nitride (C6N8) monolayer as a novel flexible sensor for hydrogen cyanide and hydrogen fluoride: A DFT study

Surge for the advancement of sensor that accurately and selectively detect toxic materials particularly cyanides and fluorides, is expanding every day. Herein, we analyze the sensing ability of carbon nitride (C6N8) monolayer for precise detection of hydrogen cyanide (HCN) and hydrogen fluoride (HF) using DFT approach. Interaction energy analysis reveals that HF binds strongly to C6N8 monolayer which is probably due to chemical bond formation whereas, HCN adsorbed to the surface by weak van der Waals forces. The atom in molecules (AIM), the density of states (DOS), non-covalent interaction (NCI), molecular electrostatic potential (MEP), electron localization function (ELF), frontier molecular orbitals (FMO), and QNBO were used to gain a thorough understanding of the complexation of HCN and HF with monolayer. HCN and HF analytes with C6N8 monolayer exhibit slight variations in band gap energy in FMO analysis (4.206 to 4.267 eV) indicating weak NCIs. Furthermore, MEP map demonstrate that more charge transfer is occurred from the C6N8 monolayer towards HF@C6N8 resulting in a strong ionic bonding. In addition, the existence of non-covalent interactions among complexes confirmed by NCI-RDG and QTAIM analysis. A short recovery period for HCN@C6N8 (1.677 × 10−7 s) makes desorption process simpler. Appreciable selectivity of monolayer towards analytes and prospects of all findings will provide an experimentalist with practical suggestions to build highly sensitive sensors for HCN and HF using C6N8 monolayer.

Historical Dynamic Mapping of Eucalyptus Plantations in Guangxi during 1990–2019 Based on Sliding-Time-Window Change Detection Using Dense Landsat Time-Series Data

Eucalyptus plantations are expanding rapidly in southern China owing to their short rotation periods and high wood yields. Determining the plantation dynamics of eucalyptus plantations facilitates accurate operational planning, maximizes benefits, and allows the scientific management and sustainable development of eucalyptus plantations. This study proposes a sliding-time-window change detection (STWCD) approach for the holistic characterization and analysis of eucalyptus plantation dynamics between 1990 and 2019 through dense Landsat time-series data. To achieve this, pre-processing was first conducted to obtain high-quality reflectance data and the monthly composite maximum normalized-difference vegetation index (NDVI) time series was determined for each Landsat pixel. Second, a sliding time window was used to segment the time series and obtain the NDVI change characteristics of the subsequent segments, and a sliding time window-based LandTrendr change detection algorithm was applied to detect the crucial growth or harvesting phases of the eucalyptus plantations. Third, pattern-matching technology was adopted based on the change detection results to determine the characteristics of the eucalyptus planting dynamics. Finally, we identified the management history of the eucalyptus plantations, including planting times, generations, and rotation cycles. The overall accuracy of eucalyptus identification was 90.08%, and the planting years of the validation samples and the planting years estimated by our algorithm revealed an apparent correlation of R2 = 0.98. The results showed that successive generations were mainly first- and second-generations, accounting for 75.79% and 19.83% of the total eucalyptus area, respectively. The rotation cycles of the eucalyptus plantations were predominantly in the range of 4–8 years. This study provides an effective approach for identifying eucalyptus plantation dynamics that can be applied to other short-rotation plantations.

Sex-specific modulation of early life vocalization and cognition by Fmr1 gene dosage in a mouse model of Fragile X Syndrome

BackgroundPup-dam ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) are essential to cognitive and socio-emotional development. In autism and Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), disruptions in pup-dam USV communication hint at a possible connection between abnormal early developmental USV communication and the later emergence of communication and social deficits.MethodsHere, we gathered USVs from PND 10 FXS pups during a short period of separation from their mothers, encompassing animals of all possible genotypes and both sexes (i.e., Fmr1-/y vs. Fmr1+/y males and Fmr1+/+, +/-, and -/- females). This allowed comparing the influence of sex and gene dosage on pups’ communication capabilities. Leveraging DeepSqueak and analyzing vocal patterns, intricate vocal behaviors such as call structure, duration, frequency modulation, and temporal patterns were examined. Furthermore, homing behavior was assessed as a sensitive indicator of early cognitive development and social discrimination. This behavior relies on the use of olfactory and thermal cues to navigate and search for the maternal or nest odor in the surrounding space.ResultsThe results show that FMRP-deficient pups of both sexes display an increased inclination to vocalize when separated from their mothers, and this behavior is accompanied by significant sex-specific changes in the main features of their USVs as well as in body weight. Analysis of the vocal repertoire and syntactic usage revealed that Fmr1 gene silencing primarily alters the USVs’ qualitative composition in males. Moreover, sex-specific effects of Fmr1 silencing on locomotor activity and homing behavior were observed. FMRP deficiency in females increased activity, reduced nest-reaching time, and extended nest time. In males, it prolonged nest-reaching time and reduced nest time without affecting locomotion.ConclusionsThese findings highlight the interplay between Fmr1 gene dosage and sex in influencing communicative and cognitive skills during infancy.

EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATIONS ON THE ELECTROCHEMICAL MACHINING OF D3 DIE STEEL MATERIAL AND MULTI-OBJECTIVE PARAMETER OPTIMIZATION

The removal of metal in the form of sludge can be termed an ECM process, having primary salient features consisting of the tool, workpiece, power supply and electrolyte solution. ECM is a potential nontraditional machining process that includes too many factors contributing to process performance. Therefore, obtaining optimal factor combinations for higher efficiency is complex. In this research work, machining parameters are voltage, powder concentration and electrolyte concentration, based on which material removal rate (MRR) and surface roughness (SR) are derived. Regression analysis, signal-to-noise ratios and analysis of variance (ANOVA) are performed to determine the optimal levels and to examine the effects of machining parameters on MRR and SR. The results derived from the experiments noticed that the MRR decreases when the voltage level is increased and surface roughness decreases for the applied voltage. In case of an increase in powder concentration, MRR decreases from range 4 to 6 and further reduces to 6–8. In case of SR, it additionally decreases on the maximum level of powder concentration. In electrolyte concentration, the MRR decreases on the increment of electrolyte and increases after a short period of time; simultaneously SR is increased from range value 10–20 and decreased with a maximum level 20–30 of NaCl solution. A comparison of MOORA-PCA and TOPSIS-PCA demonstrates the superiority of TOPSIS over MOORA technique. Statistical results (95% confidence level) indicate that the voltage, powder concentration, and electrolyte concentration affect the surface roughness by 69.50%, 8.67% and 14.59% in the electrochemical machining of d3 die steel. Therefore, the optimum combination of process parameters corresponding to voltage: 45[Formula: see text]V, powder concentration: 4[Formula: see text]g/L, and electrolyte concentration: 10 NaCl/L, respectively, were found to yield the desired result. The prediction accuracy of the TOPSIS-PCA hybrid approach model is found better than MOORA-PCA technique.

Feasibility study of Glucagon-like peptide-1 analogues for the optimization of Outcomes in obese patients undergoing AbLation for Atrial Fibrillation (GOAL-AF) protocol

BackgroundCatheter ablation for atrial fibrillation is recommended for symptomatic patients after failed medical therapy. Ablation has a higher failure rate in obese patients, and both the prevalence of atrial fibrillation and obesity are increasingly globally. The outcome of ablation can be improved if obese patients can achieve goal-oriented weight reduction prior to ablation. Conventional weight loss strategies, however, can be difficult to access and can delay ablation, thereby risking a lower chance of maintaining sinus rhythm. Effective weight-loss medications, such as the glucagon-like peptide inhibitor-1 drugs, offer the potential for incremental impact on weight loss over a shorter period of time as a bridging therapy. The aim of this study is to assess the feasibility of using liraglutide, a glucagon-like peptide inhibitor-1, in producing weight loss in obese patients before catheter ablation.MethodsThe study is an open-label, uncontrolled, prospective single-centre feasibility study of daily liraglutide injections in the treatment of obese patients for at least 13 weeks before and 52 weeks after AF ablation. Adult patients with symptomatic AF whose body mass index ≥ 30 will be recruited from those planning to undergo ablation. Feasibility will be determined based on the recruitment rate, adherence to the medication, and the amount of weight loss achieved over the study period. Exploratory outcomes include changes in atrial structure, function, and fibrosis with weight loss evaluated by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, electroanatomic mapping, and patient-reported outcome measure.DiscussionThis study will allow us to determine whether the use of liraglutide in obese patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing ablation is feasible with adequate recruitment. The additional information on adherence and average weight loss over the study period will inform the design of a future definitive randomized controlled trial.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05221229). Registered on 2 February 2022.Trial fundingMetchley Park Medical Society and University of Birmingham Starter Fellowship, British Heart Foundation Accelerator Grant, Abbott Investigator-Initiated Study Grant.

Preoperative rapid growth of inferior vena cava tumor thrombus in renal cell carcinoma

IntroductionWe present the case of a rapidly growing inferior vena cava tumor thrombus in renal cell carcinoma.Case presentationWe present a case of a 66‐year‐old woman with right renal cell carcinoma with a tumor thrombus extending 2 cm into the inferior vena cava on an initial Imaging. Radical surgery was performed 6 weeks after the first visit. Intraoperatively, the tumor thrombus was confirmed to have grown near the diaphragm. The tumor was resected using an inferior vena cava clamping just below the diaphragm. The tumor thrombus and renal cell carcinoma were completely removed. There was no recurrence 6 months postoperatively.ConclusionInferior vena cava tumor thrombus in renal cell carcinoma can grow in a short period, suggesting that preoperative imaging evaluation at the appropriate time is important. Once inferior vena cava tumor thrombus of renal cell carcinoma occurs, surgery should not be delayed unless there is an urgent reason.

Silver Alloy Surface Modification for Mechanical Property Enhancement in Aviation and Transportation

Silver alloys are often used for electrical switches in railway transportation. However, a well-known issue with these switches is their relatively short application period due to certain disadvantages of silver alloys, mainly their low hardness and low resistance to abrasive wear, in contrast to their excellent electrical conductivity. Therefore, the main goal of this study was to increase or maintain the hardness of the surface layer in order to extend the life of worn parts without compromising their electrical properties. Instead of ceramic particles, as in other studies, metallic powders were used, which could increase the electrical and/or thermal properties of silver alloys. The following work presents the use of laser processing as a relatively new technique for metal and metal alloy surface processing technology. In particular, a process based on the melting of silver (Ag) with metallic powders, such as chromium (Cr) and nickel (Ni) particles, is presented. The aim was for these powders to create intermetallic phases with a silver matrix in the obtained surface layer, significantly improving the mechanical properties based on the formation of the phases coherent or semi-coherent with the silver matrix. Regarding the original practical implications of this work, it was important to investigate the possibility of applying fibre laser for surface property enhancement. The scientific aim was to describe the changes in microstructure and compounds that occurred in the laser-remelted surface silver layer after Ni and Cr particles were fed into the basic silver material. It was concluded that the surface layer obtained after chromium application was without cracks and defects and had a higher hardness than the untreated material. A three-zone structure was also found in the obtained surface layer: (1) the remelted zone, (2) the heat-affected zone, and (3) the matrix material. The remelting zone revealed a higher hardness compared to the untreated material, reaching 92 HV0.3, which is more than twice the initial hardness value.

Investigation of the effects of in ovo taurine injection on hatching characteristics and stress reduction potential.

In ovo application is the process of administering some nutrients or components into the egg. The main purpose of this application is to ensure that some nutrients are provided to chicks with a short incubation period. Few studies were conducted with taurine in fertile eggs; especially, no observation of hatchability and chick quality has been found. In addition, taurine has an anti-stress impact that fights oxidative factors. To assess the hatchability and chick quality after in ovo taurine administration. To determine the stress that may occur as a result of in ovo application and whether taurine has a stress-reducing effect. A total of 1200 fertile eggs from a 34-week-old broiler breeder (Ross 308) flock were categorized into 4 groups with 75 eggs per replicate: control (uninjected), taurine group (0.30mL dissolved taurine in distilled water), sham control (sterile distilled water) and perforation (eggs perforated and then waxed). On day 14 of incubation, an in ovo injection was administered to the albumen. Data on hatching parameters and hepatic HSP70 levels were obtained using relevant formulas and western blotting, respectively. Control chicks exhibited higher hatchability than other groups, with the taurine group showing the lowest hatchability. The HSP70 levels were the highest in the perforation group compared to the control group. An increase of 21.37% in the taurine group and 83.45% in the sham control group was observed compared to the control group. The findings suggest that in ovo application may induce increased stress, whereas taurine may have positive effects in mitigating the stress caused by in ovo application.

Geochemical effects of carbonated water on reservoir and caprock minerals for carbon capture and storage

CO2 can be safely stored in geological formations, such as deep saline aquifers and depleted oil or gas reservoirs. However, knowledge about caprock and storing bed integrity is essential for safe storage in sedimentary porous rocks. In this study typical carbonate and sandstone minerals present in the reservoir and caprocks have been exposed to carbonated water above supercritical conditions of CO2 for short time periods (7 days) to investigate the CO2-brine-rock interactions and their effects on mineral stability. After exposure, the equilibrated brine composition was determined and any changes to the mineral samples were examined by SEM, EDX and XRD analyses. The solubility of CO2 in brines was low, increasing with pressure and decreasing with salinity, and no significant increase in CO2 solubility was observed above critical pressure and temperature for CO2. Quartz and clay minerals were the least reactive sandstone minerals, while ion exchange reactions were observed for the feldspar minerals. For calcite minerals, calcium ion liberation was observed accompanied by a pH increase, which is linked to mineral dissolution. SEM, EDX and XRD analyses did not detect any changes on the surfaces of silicate and carbonate minerals exposed to the carbonated water. The overall results confirm minimal effects on silicate and carbonate minerals after short-term exposure to carbonated water above supercritical conditions of CO2.

Employing the generalized Pareto distribution to analyze extreme rainfall events on consecutive rainy days in Thailand's Chi watershed: implications for flood management

Abstract. Extreme rainfall events in the Chi watershed of northeastern Thailand have significant implications for the safe and economic design of engineered structures and effective reservoir management. This study investigates the characteristics of extreme rainfall events in the watershed and their implications for flood risk management. We apply extreme value theory to historical maximum cumulative rainfall data for consecutive rainy days from 1984 to 2022. The generalized Pareto distribution (GPD) was used to model the extreme rainfall data, with the parameters estimated using maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) and linear moment estimation (L-ME) methods based on specific conditions. The goodness-of-fit tests confirm the suitability of the GPD for the data, with p values exceeding 0.05. Our findings reveal that certain regions, notably Udon Thani, Chaiyaphum, Maha Sarakham, Tha Phra Agromet., Roi Et, and Sisaket provinces, show the highest return levels for consecutive 2 d (CONS-2) and 3 d (CONS-3) rainfall. These results underscore the heightened risk of flash flooding in these regions, even with short periods of continuous rainfall. Based on our findings, we developed 2D return level maps using the Q-geographic information system (Q-GIS) program, providing a visual tool to assist with flood risk management. The study offers valuable insights for designing effective flood management strategies and highlights the need for considering extreme rainfall events in water management and planning. Future research could extend our findings through spatial correlation analysis and the use of copula functions. Overall, this study emphasizes the importance of preparing for extreme rainfall events, particularly in the era of climate change, to mitigate potential flood-related damage.

Fasting and its implications for fish welfare in Atlantic salmon aquaculture

AbstractPeriods of fasting occur for a multitude of reasons in Atlantic salmon aquaculture. Feed withdrawal is widely used prior to transport, parasite treatments, preslaughter and for depuration purposes in recirculating aquaculture systems. Voluntary fasting is a coping response when fish have poor health or are exposed to poor farm environments. Owing to increased attention to animal welfare in aquaculture, concerns have been raised regarding ethical issues when farmed fish are subjected to fasting. However, thorough science‐based recommendations for fasting and feed‐withdrawal regimes have been lacking. The purpose of this review is to provide a synthesis of the various causes for fasting in Atlantic salmon aquaculture and evaluate their associated welfare implications so that guidelines for appropriate practices can be formulated. To interpret impacts, we describe biological responses and tolerance limits to fasting in Atlantic salmon and consider adaptations in the wild. Fry and parr are highly sensitive to feed withdrawal. However, post‐smolts and adults are well‐adapted to endure prolonged fasting without experiencing compromised functionality or health. Here, short periods of feed withdrawal prior to operations should therefore not constitute significant welfare concerns. Serious concerns are instead associated with voluntary fasting that may continue for weeks. We emphasize that environmental extremes that exceed appetite impairing thresholds must be avoided. Additionally, farmed fish should not be subjected to practices that lead to chronic stress that induce cessation of appetite. Diseases or parasites that impair appetite should also be mitigated. Fasting is here a symptom rather than a cause for poor welfare.

Chemical analysis of wetland plants to evaluate the bioaccumulation and metabolism of hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH)

Hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCH) belong to the banned pesticides with short-time production and use during the last century. However, the consequences of this short period are still present as persistent environmental contamination. This study represents the large lab-scale experiment focused on the HCH accumulation and metabolism in selected wetland plants (Juncus effuses, Typha latifolia, Phragmites australis) and trees (Alnus glutinosa) after the exposure to the technical mix of HCH isomers (t-HCH) or δ-HCH at three different concentration. During the three-month exposure, morphological (biomass, height, relative chlorophyll content) and physiological (photosynthetic measurements - photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, transpiration and dark transpiration) parameters were measured to assess the HCH effect on plant's growth. The results showed that all selected plant species supported HCH removal from the soil. The total removal efficiency was lower for the t-HCH than for δ-HCH exposure, and the best results were provided by Alnus glutinosa tree. Also, no isomer preference was observed in plants exposed to t-HCH. Most HCH remained accumulated in the root biomass, and mainly α-HCH and δ-HCH were transported to the above-ground parts due to their physicochemical properties. Simultaneously, HCH uptake and metabolization to chlorobenzenes (CB) and chlorophenols (CP) occur. Non-targeted analysis showed that CP could be conjugated to glucose and malonyl in plant tissue, and secondary plant metabolism is affected positively and negatively after exposure to t-HCH depending on plant species and chemical concentration. Luteolin, quercetin and quercetin-3-O-glucoside found common to all species showed quantitative changes due to HCH. Nevertheless, most morphological and physiological parameters were adversely affected without statistical significance. This large-scale study provides information on the fate of HCH in the soil-plant system, the suitability of selected plants and their adaptation to chemical stress for use in the phytoremediation process.

Efficiency-cost, micropropagation, bioreactors, temporary immersion systems

Objective: to estimate the production price of strawberry “mother” plant of the CP-Jacona variety in both TIS and TS, and to compare these prices with the price of the imported “mother” plant. Design/Methodology/Approach: micropropagation methods have been used as an effective means for the mass production of pathogen-free plants, in small spaces and relatively short periods of time. In particular, in vitro Temporary Immersion Systems (TIS) applied to the production of strawberry “mother” plants have been shown to offer technological and quantitative benefits, as well as a higher proliferation rate, compared to the in vitro Traditional System (TS). Despite the benefits of TIS, these systems have not been evaluated in terms of the price at which the “mother” plant can be produced and whether it is a profitable option to supply strawberry producers. The traditional method of financial analysis was applied. Results: the price of the CP-Jacona variety plant obtained from the third production period through TIS was lower than the price of the imported Festival or Camarosa varieties. Findings/Conclusions: both the high production rate and the low rate of loss from handling in TIS were fundamental aspects to obtain lower prices than those of imported varieties.

Comparison of Prediction Effectiveness in Deep Learning Perspective of China’s Data Finance

The study has developed a financial time series forecasting model, the Transformer-Encoder model, which utilizes the attention mechanism. This model has been applied to predict the closing price of the Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE) index, a reliable indicator of financial trends. Furthermore, the study has conducted a comparative analysis, evaluating the performance of our model against other deep learning models, machine learning models, and traditional time series data forecasting models across short, medium, and long-term forecasting periods. Our study has yielded the following key findings: Firstly, the Transformer-Encoder model, leveraging the attention mechanism, demonstrates strong performance in predicting closing prices across short, medium, and long-term periods. This indicates the model’s viability in handling non-stationary financial data and its potential as a forecasting tool applicable to time series prediction problems within the economic sphere. Secondly, compared to alternative deep learning models, machine learning models, and traditional time series data forecasting models, our proposed model consistently outperforms them.

Numerical Simulation of Hydrogen–Coal Blending Combustion in a 660 MW Tangential Boiler

With the adjustment of energy structure, the utilization of hydrogen energy has been widely attended. China’s carbon neutrality targets make it urgent to change traditional coal-fired power generation. The paper investigates the combustion of pulverized coal blended with hydrogen to reduce carbon emissions. In terms of calorific value, the pulverized coal combustion with hydrogen at 1%, 5%, and 10% blending ratios is investigated. The results show that there is a significant reduction in CO2 concentration after hydrogen blending. The CO2 concentration (mole fraction) decreased from 15.6% to 13.6% for the 10% hydrogen blending condition compared to the non-hydrogen blending condition. The rapid combustion of hydrogen produces large amounts of heat in a short period, which helps the ignition of pulverized coal. However, as the proportion of hydrogen blending increases, the production of large amounts of H2O gives an overall lower temperature. On the other hand, the temperature distribution is more uniform. The concentrations of O2 and CO in the upper part of the furnace increased. The current air distribution pattern cannot satisfy the adequate combustion of the fuel after hydrogen blending.

Research on Automotive Seat Heating Strategy Based on Objective Thermal Comfort Evaluation

Abstract Seat heating is an essential means to improve cabin occupant thermal comfort. How to set a reasonable seat heating strategy is very important to improve occupant thermal comfort and reduce vehicle energy consumption. Based on objective thermal comfort evaluation criteria, this paper analyzes three strategies: fixed heating power, fixed seat surface temperature, and intermittent seat heating. It explores the occupant thermal comfort characteristics under different strategies. It is found that the optimum heating power or optimum seat surface temperature to maintain occupant thermal comfort varies with the initial seat temperature. Compared with the two strategies of fixed heating power and fixed seat surface temperature, the intermittent seat heating proposed in this paper can make the human body reach the optimal state of comfort in a shorter period, and the power consumption is less as the seat heating is opened for a longer time. This intermittent seat heating strategy not only adapts to different low-temperature environments outside but also provides sufficient safety guarantees while improving human thermal comfort. It can provide some references for the design of car seat heating and research on passenger cabin thermal comfort.